Home Products to Use for Emergencies

Essential Products to Keep at Home for Emergencies

Emergencies often strike without warning, and whether it’s a natural disaster, a power outage, or a medical emergency, having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference. While most of us know the importance of storing food and water, there are many versatile household items that are incredibly useful in a pinch.

From medical necessities to cleaning supplies, here’s a list of essential products you should always keep at home to be prepared for the unexpected.

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda isn’t just for baking—it’s one of the most versatile items you can have in your home.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Fire Suppressant: It can help extinguish small grease fires.
• First Aid: Mix it with water to create a paste for soothing insect bites, stings, or minor burns.
• Cleaning Agent: Use it to scrub surfaces or deodorize spaces when traditional cleaners aren’t available.

2. Iodine

Iodine is a must-have for medical emergencies and water purification.

Uses in Emergencies:

• First Aid: Iodine can disinfect cuts and wounds to prevent infection.
• Water Purification: Add a few drops of iodine to contaminated water, let it sit for 30 minutes, and it’s safe to drink.

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

A staple in many first aid kits, hydrogen peroxide has multiple uses.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Wound Care: Use it to clean and disinfect minor cuts and scrapes.
• Cleaning: It can sanitize surfaces or act as a mild bleach.
• Mouth Rinse: Dilute it with water to clean your mouth if toothpaste isn’t available.

4. Duct Tape

When it comes to quick fixes, duct tape is indispensable.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Repairs: Patch up broken items, seal leaks, or create a makeshift bandage.
• Shelter: Use it to secure tarps or repair holes in tents or clothing.
• First Aid: Immobilize a splint or secure a bandage in place.

5. Vinegar

Another household multitasker, vinegar has numerous applications.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Cleaning: A natural disinfectant for surfaces.
• Health: Relieve a sore throat by gargling with a mix of vinegar and water.
• Insect Control: Deter ants and other pests with a spray of vinegar.

6. Salt

Salt isn’t just for seasoning—it has emergency uses, too.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Preservation: Salt can preserve meat and fish when refrigeration isn’t an option.
• First Aid: Dissolve salt in warm water to create a saline solution for cleaning wounds or soothing sore throats.
• Melting Ice: Sprinkle it on icy paths to improve traction.

7. Petroleum Jelly (Vaseline)

Petroleum jelly is small but mighty in emergencies.

Uses in Emergencies:

• First Aid: Protect minor cuts or burns by applying it as a barrier.
• Fire Starter: Mix petroleum jelly with cotton balls for an effective fire starter.
• Lubricant: Use it to fix stuck zippers or prevent rust.

8. Bleach (Unscented)

While powerful, bleach should be used carefully due to its potency.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Water Purification: Add 8 drops per gallon of water to make it safe to drink.
• Disinfection: Use a diluted bleach solution to clean surfaces and prevent the spread of germs.

9. Aluminum Foil

Lightweight and easy to store, aluminum foil is incredibly handy.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Cooking: Wrap food for cooking over an open flame.
• Signal for Help: Use it to reflect sunlight and signal rescuers.
• Insulation: Line windows or wrap items to retain heat.

10. Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is a lesser-known but highly effective emergency item.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Pain Relief: Dissolve it in warm water for a relaxing soak to ease sore muscles.
• Splinter Removal: Soak the affected area to help splinters surface.
• Fertilizer Substitute: If you need to grow food during long-term emergencies, Epsom salt can enrich the soil.

11. Plastic Sheeting

Plastic sheeting or tarps are vital for protection and shelter.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Temporary Shelter: Create a roof or ground cover.
• Water Collection: Use it to collect and channel rainwater.
• Barrier: Seal windows or doors during severe weather or chemical spills.

12. Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is a disinfectant with multiple uses.

Uses in Emergencies:

• Wound Care: Clean and sterilize cuts or tools.
• Fire Starter: Use it to ignite a fire when no other option is available.
• Surface Sanitizer: Quickly clean surfaces to prevent the spread of germs.

How to Organize These Items

Having these products is only helpful if you can find them quickly. Here are some tips:

• Designate a Space: Use a cabinet or storage bin specifically for emergency items.
• Label Clearly: Mark each item with its primary use to save time in a crisis.
• Rotate Supplies: Check expiration dates on items like hydrogen peroxide and replace them regularly.

Be Ready for Anything

Being prepared isn’t about living in fear—it’s about having peace of mind. By stocking these versatile household items, you’ll be ready to handle whatever life throws your way, from power outages to unexpected injuries.

At RTG Supply Co., we believe in empowering people to face emergencies with confidence. Check out our collection of survival gear and pre-packed go-bags for even more ways to stay prepared.

Explore our products at RTGSupplyCo.com and start building your emergency toolkit today!